Summer is right around the corner and there’s no better way to soak up the sunshine than a trip to Queen Elizabeth Park. Home to the Bloedel Conservatory, and not to mention some of the most beautiful gardens and views in the city, Q.E. Park is truly a Vancouver highlight.

There are several entrances to the park, including Ontario Street and West 33rd Avenue, or along West 37th Avenue between Columbia and Mackie Street. From our Oak Townhomes, it’s a quick 4-minute drive or 15-minute bus ride. The park is also near the Oakridge-41st SkyTrain station on the Canada Line. Once you’re inside, you’ll want to explore the Quarry Gardens. Make your way across the charming bridge over the stream for the perfect photo backdrop. The Rose Garden is a particularly sweet spot for a romantic stroll.

Queen Elizabeth Park is the highest point in Vancouver, which makes for stunning views of the park, the city, and the North Shore mountains. See if you can spot the many sculptures, including a piece that is one of three copies; the others being located in front of the Houses of Parliament in London, and at the Rockefeller Estate in New York. Stop by the Dancing Waters fountain, across from the Bloedel Conservatory in the park’s plaza. Make sure to snap your picture, as this is a popular spot for wedding and graduation photos.

The best way to enjoy lunch at Q.E. Park is with a picnic. Grab a blanket and head to the designated picnic area, where you’ll find picnic tables and BBQ pits. If you don’t have a packed lunch, try out the Seasons in the Park fine dining restaurant for a more upscale version of lunch in the park. After lunch, head to the Pitch & Putt or try your hand at lawn bowling. There are also tennis courts, basketball courts, and outdoor roller hockey courts at your disposal. Use of the roller hockey and basketball courts, as well as the Frisbee and disc golf area, is all free. There’s even an off-leash dog area to make sure your pooch can also enjoy this Vancouver gem.

A day at Queen Elizabeth Park is not complete without a trip to Bloedel Conservatory. The dome is home to more than 200 free-flying exotic birds, and 500 exotic plants and flowers. The temperature-controlled environment contains three different climate zones, highlighting some of the world’s most endangered ecosystems. Point out the different species with the help of the bird guide, and get your children involved in the fun with a children’s scavenger hunt. To learn more about a trip to the Bloedel Conservatory, check out their website.